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Slow Cooker Chicken Thighs with Sweet Potatoes and Black Beans

A cozy, nourishing one-pot meal that comes together with minimal hands-on time. Tender chicken thighs simmer with creamy sweet potatoes, hearty black beans, smoky paprika, and a hint of lime. Perfect for busy weeknights or a Sunday meal prep, this dish delivers comforting flavors and balanced nutrition with little effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Servings 4
Calories 420 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lb bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained (15 oz)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, to taste)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh lime juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions
 

  • Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Sear the chicken thighs, skin-side down, until the skin is crispy and golden (about 4–5 minutes). Flip and sear the other side for 2 minutes. This step adds flavor, but you can skip it if you’re short on time; the thighs will still become tender in the slow cooker.
  • Transfer the seared thighs to the slow cooker. In the same skillet, sauté the onions for 2–3 minutes until translucent, then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Pour the onion-garlic mixture over the chicken. Add the cubed sweet potatoes, black beans, diced tomatoes with their juices, and chicken broth. Sprinkle paprika, cumin, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper over the top.
  • Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld together. If your slow cooker runs hot, check at the 5-hour mark on low to avoid overcooking the chicken.
  • Stir in lime juice right before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or chili flakes if you like a bit more heat.
  • Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or cornbread to soak up the flavorful sauce.